Dog Emergencies: When Care Cannot Wait

Pet ownership is a big responsibility. Your pet needs the right food, activities, and medical care. Pets can get sick or injured when you least expect it. Dogs and cats are the most common domesticated animals, and one or the other can be found in majority of homes. Regular veterinary care is fairly simple for dogs and cats. They usually go for an annual visit to receive vaccinations and an exam. Most issues are able to be handled during the normal business hours of the veterinary office. There are, however, some things that happen suddenly. Injuries, aging pets, and illness are all contributing factors when it comes to the need for emergency care.

Respiratory Issues

Dogs are known for panting heavily whenever they are hot or have been running around. This is not usually a reason for concern. They may also pant when they need to use the bathroom. If your pet is panting more than normal and is getting worse, you need to get in the car and head to the emergency vet immediately. You may also hear wheezing or coughing. These issues are not likely to resolve on their own. A true lack of oxygen may occur during these issues. Check online to find a Minster Veterinary Emergency Vet near me.

Injuries

There are many injuries that can occur when you have an active dog. Smaller dogs are more likely to get hurt by bigger dogs or by getting stepped on. Large dogs can get hurt when they are trying to escape out of wire crates, for one thing. A large dog may jump up on the window and end up with severe cuts. The emerging popularity of dog parks have made injuries from fights more common in recent years. These may involve puncture wounds from bites or tears needing stitches. The risk of infection and the need for vaccination boosters makes these emergency situations.

Poisoning

Dogs can be very curious about their surroundings. They are often getting into the trash, plants, and even eat toys and furniture. Occasionally, they get something that is very dangerous to them. Some plants can be toxic and cause a fatality if the dog is not treated immediately. If you see the dog eat a human food that you know is toxic or a plant, you can run to the emergency vet and let them know what the dog ate. If you do not see it happen, you may see them vomiting, or acting disoriented. Many plants are a neurotoxin. Get to the vet as soon as possible when a poison has entered your dog’s bloodstream.

Family pets are a great joy. They are usually fairly easy to care for. Preventative care can be done at the vet during regular business hours. There are several situations, however, that call for emergency care. Breathing problems, injuries, and poisoning all may need a qualified veterinarian to be remedied.